Couple Relationship Education: Before and During COVID-19

Abstract

The restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic have required program planners to re-evaluate the provision of relationship education (RE). The current mixed-methods study focuses on the Healthy Relationships [State] initiative's transition from in-person to virtual online RE programing, measuring program impact and comparing the outcomes between the two delivery methods for individuals participating in Couple LINKS, a curriculum designed for adults in committed relationships. Comparisons between delivery methods revealed that in-person participants showed greater gains than virtual participants on key program measures; however, the outcomes were positive for all. Qualitative responses of virtual participants revealed what they liked most and liked least about the virtual format, citing their appreciation for the curriculum, the opportunity to develop new skills, facilitator quality, online accessibility, and couple time. Schedule conflicts and uneven course pacing, reference materials, technology, and sharing personal information were listed as things participants liked least about the virtual program. Implications for the future delivery of RE programs are discussed.